| Hello,
As we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., I am reminded of the power of his vision. This vision continues to guide us in our work today. Dr. King’s dream of equality, justice, and a “Beloved Community” resonates deeply with our shared mission at LULAC. His strong commitment to nonviolence as a force for change reminds us that unity, courage, and action make progress possible.
This year, we find ourselves at a historic crossroads. The path ahead is uncertain, and challenges are many for the Latino communities we serve across the United States and Puerto Rico. Yet, I want to assure you that our sense of purpose has never been stronger. We are not merely observing the changes around us; we are preparing and taking deliberate action to confront them with clarity and determination.
In the spirit of Dr. King’s teachings, our strategic focus this year is embodied in the theme: “Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice, and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence.”This guiding principle underscores the importance of safeguarding the fundamental rights that Dr. King so passionately championed. It also serves as a call to action for each of us.
LULAC is moving forward with a multifaceted strategy to empower and protect our communities. One significant effort is our robust “Know Your Rights” campaign, developed in partnership with a coalition of like-minded organizations. This initiative provides critical knowledge to our communities about their rights when interacting with law enforcement, ICE, or Homeland Security. Empowering our families with this information enables them to navigate challenging situations safely.
Also, we are working closely with legal experts and community leaders to guide family preparedness in the face of unexpected detentions. These preparations include ensuring that students have a support system in place at school and that families know how to protect their assets and loved ones. By anticipating potential hardships, we build resilience and stability within our communities.
Our dedication to supporting DACA recipients remains a top priority. We are actively working to connect these young leaders with resources, legal assistance, and opportunities to help them thrive despite the uncertainties they face. Their courage and perseverance inspire us, and we are committed to standing alongside them every step of the way.
Dr. King’s philosophy makes our work urgent and necessary. At LULAC, we are not standing still. Together, we are building a movement that embodies the values of freedom, justice, and democracy. Our efforts honor Dr. King’s legacy and demonstrate that his dream is alive in the hearts and actions of all who strive for equality.
Let us recommit ourselves to advancing the ideals Dr. King held dear. Let us remember that through unity, determination, and a shared vision, we can overcome any challenge and create a brighter future for generations to come. Thank you for your continued dedication and partnership. Together, we will make the impossible possible.
With gratitude and hope,
Roman Palomares
National President
League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC)
About LULAC
The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the nation’s oldest and largest Latino civil rights organization. Founded in 1929, LULAC is committed to advancing the rights and opportunities of Latino Americans through advocacy, community building, and education. With a growing network of councils nationwide, LULAC remains steadfast in its mission to protect and empower millions of Latinos, contributing daily to America’s prosperity. For more information about LULAC and its initiatives, please visit www.LULAC.org. |
